e.m. Hemingway's Restaurant, Cape May, NJ:
A Dining Review
e.m. Hemingway's Restaurant at the Grand Hotel
1045 Beach Avenue
Cape May, NJ
e.m. Hemingways Restaurant: Highlights
Fare: Traditional American
Price: Expensive
Food Quality: Mediocre, the menu does not offer creative, or special preparation techniques to distinguish itself above other similiar Cape May restaurants
Service: Friendly, attentive, though inconsistent
Decor: Dated, old world basic.
Overall Rating: 2 stars
Note: Four star Rating System from 1/2 star = poor to Four stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: Moderate - except on Friday and Saturday evenings when the music is loud.
Dress: Casual
Recommended For: Diners who enjoy basic steaks and seafood served with a full-service bar and high-definition TV"s for watching Philly sports teams.
Not Recommended For: Budget conscious diners who prefer more casual dining with a larger menu.
Recommended dishes: When available, The Prime Sirloin of Beef; The Pan-Seared Scottish Salmon; and the Char-Grilled Rib Eye.
Liquor: Decent selection of reasonably priced wines and specialty cocktails. Beer selection is limited. Bar scene is busy.
E.M. Hemingway’s Restaurant, located inside the Grand Hotel and just steps from the beach, draws visitors looking for upscale dining with ocean views, classic steaks, and cocktails.
While Cape May is celebrated for its vibrant fine dining scene—home to numerous gourmet restaurants that focus on fresh, locally sourced, farm-to-table cuisine—Hemingway’s tends to fall short compared to other top-tier steak houses in the area. Its menu, ambiance, and service lack the refinement and inspiration found elsewhere in town.
The kitchen leans heavily on traditional American fare, with familiar staples like steaks, seafood, and pasta. However, the execution often lacks flair, creativity, and attention to presentation. One notable highlight is the well-liked Wednesday Prime Rib Night, where diners can enjoy a hearty portion of Prime Rib of Beef au jus at a reasonable price.
The bar at Hemingway’s has a loyal following, particularly among Philadelphia sports fans. With six high-definition TVs airing everything from NFL Sunday Ticket and MLB Extra Innings to the Big Ten Network and Comcast Sportsnet Philadelphia, it’s a go-to spot for catching the game.
The restaurant’s interior evokes a nostalgic, old-world charm, featuring timeworn booths and tables set against walls decorated with mounted game fish.
Hemingway’s is open year-round and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
(Updated: March 2025)
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